Health library

Depression and Suicide

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the highest suicide rates are among men over the age of 85.

Men are four times as likely to commit suicide than women. However, women attempt suicide two to three times more often than men.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the 11th leading cause of death for all Americans, and is the third leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24.

More than 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a diagnosable mental disorder - most commonly a depressive disorder or a substance abuse disorder.

Warning signs of suicidal feelings, thoughts, or behavior:

Many of the warning signs of possible suicidal feelings are also symptoms of depression. Observations of the following behaviors may be helpful in identifying persons who may be at risk of attempting suicide:

indicates plans or efforts toward plans to commit suicide, including the following:

verbalizes "I want to kill myself," or "I'm going to commit suicide."

gives verbal hints such as "I won't be a problem much longer," or "If anything happens to me, I want you to know ...."

gives away favorite possessions; throws away important belongings

becomes suddenly cheerful after a period of depression

may express bizarre thoughts

writes one or more suicide notes

Threats of suicide communicate desperation and a cry for help. Always take statements of suicidal feelings, thoughts, behaviors, or plans very seriously. Any person who expresses thoughts of suicide should be evaluated immediately.

The warning signs of suicidal feelings, thoughts, or behaviors may resemble other medical conditions or psychiatric problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

What immediate action should be taken to prevent a suicide?

According to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), the following steps should be immediately taken if someone is threatening suicide: